D'enfant de banlieue à star internationale : l'incroyable histoire de Sofiane Pamart

Sofiane Pamart, a French pianist and composer, joins the podcast "Déclic" to discuss his remarkable journey, making classical piano accessible, particularly within the rap scene. He is the first pianist to be produced at the Stade de France and the first to fill the Accor Arena solo. His achievements include a platinum-certified album, "Letter," and performing at the opening of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Pamart emphasizes the importance of mental preparation, visualizing success to transform pressure into familiar moments. He recalls his childhood fascination with the piano, seeing it as a protective, expressive space, and a "rebel" instrument that had lived stories. This imaginative approach extends to his stage performances, where he seeks to create unique, cinematic moments, like setting a piano on fire, drawing inspiration from rock stars. His mother's early inscription at the conservatory at age seven was crucial, recognizing his talent and providing him the opportunity to pursue his passion. Pamart views his relationship with the piano as a passionate, almost obsessive one, which taught him discipline, sacrifice, and how to transform potentially toxic dynamics into something luminous. He likens this to a relationship that demands a lot but also offers immense expression. Pamart's first "scene" was a familial gathering where he played invented songs, evoking strong emotions in his audience. His first real performance involved his mother acting as a "rempart," shielding him from distractions and optimizing his preparation, highlighting the importance of a supportive team, a concept he sees mirrored in the entrepreneurial world. He builds his team by seeking individuals with singular talents and a strong instinctual connection, prioritizing sincerity and a shared journey over hierarchy. His latest album, "Éclectique," pushes international boundaries with collaborations featuring artists like J Balvin, Nelly Furtado, and Rema. This marks the end of his solo piano trilogy and introduces new sonic elements, including a 70-piece orchestra and the Prague Philharmonic Choir. The piano, he explains, evolves from being the sole narrator to a conductor, inviting other colors and human voices into his music. Pamart's career trajectory is marked by deliberate steps. His first album, "Planète," was born from a solo world tour to define his identity. "Letter" was a dedication to his audience, and "Nuit" explored nocturnal themes. His collaboration with manager Guillaume Heritier was pivotal. After meeting, they waited five years for the right moment to collaborate, during which Pamart honed his entrepreneurial and artistic skills. Heritier provided direction, concentrating Pamart's energy and giving his career a crucial "cap." Pamart views the five-year waiting period as a blessing, allowing him to gain experience and skills, equipping him for success when the time was right. He draws parallels with athletes like Raphaël Varane and Charles Leclerc, who also prioritize preparation and mental well-being. He believes that success is built on singularities, amplifying one's strengths rather than solely compensating for weaknesses. His performances are characterized by a deep connection with his audience. He intentionally avoids speaking on stage during concerts, preferring to let the music and emotions speak, and uses interviews like this one to share his thoughts. He finds immense reward in the positive impact his music has on listeners, citing anecdotes of his songs providing solace during difficult times or aiding in personal achievements. The Paris 2024 Olympic Games performance was a deeply symbolic moment. Pamart was contacted two and a half years prior, and the secrecy surrounding the project, even from his parents until a week before, underscored its significance. He describes the moment of playing "Imagine" on a fiery piano as an out-of-body experience, with only the countdown and the blackout remaining in his memory. Pamart's approach to performance involves rigorous mental visualization, preparing for various scenarios to make unexpected moments feel familiar. He now embraces improvisation, arriving on stage without a predetermined setlist, allowing his emotions and the immediate connection with the audience to guide his playing. This spontaneity, he believes, ensures authenticity and avoids the risk of becoming robotic. He defines his mission as creating profound emotional connections and offering hope, acting as a "chevalier" for positivity. He believes that crying, whether from joy or sadness, is a healthy expression of emotion, and music provides a safe space for vulnerability. His latest album's creation was influenced by love, a concept he initially kept separate from his work but later integrated, finding it amplified his creativity. He also reflects on the profound impact of death, a recent "click" that reshaped his perspective. Pamart's management of his demanding career involves a disciplined approach to well-being, balancing moments of celebration with strict routines for diet and exercise. He emphasizes the importance of a supportive, non-toxic entourage and making deliberate choices that align with his long-term goals, recognizing that sacrifices are often necessary. He likens his artistic journey to that of an infant learning about the world, maintaining a sense of wonder and openness. His definition of "number one" in piano is not about quantifiable records but about impact and continuous pursuit. He finds satisfaction in the journey and the ongoing effort to improve, rather than reaching a definitive endpoint. He believes true success lies in evolving within one's natural element and embracing the present moment. The business aspect of his career, while substantial, is viewed as a means to facilitate his mission of creating emotional experiences and offering hope. He sees large budgets not as pressure but as opportunities to realize ambitious projects. His ultimate goal is to touch hearts and provide a sense of light and positivity in the world.